The College saw an enthusiastic gathering of students, hobbyists, and longtime fans on Nov. 13 as Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) Academia held its much awaited on-campus event at the Design and Arts (D+A) Campus, which was powered by Romançon and WP Gaming, transforming a familiar cafeteria into a hub of strategy, learning, and friendly competition.
The event and its activities introduced the fundamentals of the Pokémon Trading Card Game to newcomers while giving seasoned players a space to showcase their expertise, fostering a community where curiosity, nostalgia, and gameplay converged. Across the venue, a mix of minigames and activity stations invited participants to try their hand at challenges that rewarded them with small prizes—ranging from promo cards to game accessories.
Students shifted from table to table, testing their luck in quick games, practicing card mechanics, and jumping into casual battles with fellow attendees. Tutors stationed throughout the area guided newcomers through the rules and strategies, creating an environment where learning, play, and friendly competition blended seamlessly.
In the afternoon, the event also featured a TCG Masterclass led by one of the tutors, offering attendees a deeper dive into Pokémon TCG. The session covered strategies, deck-building techniques, and a thorough explanation of the game’s rules, giving players a chance to move beyond the basics introduced earlier in the day.
A card game for all
For ID125 students Jenzel Gonzalez and Tony from Animation (AB-ANI) program, attending the Pokémon TCG Academia event was a mix of curiosity, nostalgia, and social opportunity. Gonzalez shared with The Benildean, “I like Pokémon, that’s it,” while Tony admitted, “I actually didn’t know about this event until today. And when I found out that my friend was joining […] I love Pokémon, so why not try it?”
Both agreed that the Pokémon TCG is accessible and beginner-friendly. Tony explained, “At first, TCG feels intimidating, but after you get the basics down, it’s really fun.” They also highlighted the social aspect, with Tony noting, “I think it’s a fun way to socialize with other people, and meet someone who has the same interests as you!”
For them, the event wasn’t just about gameplay—it was a way to connect, learn, and have fun while celebrating a shared passion.
In an interview with The Benildean, Senior Business Development for WP Gaming–a consulting and marketing company based in the Philippines committed to connecting brands, games, and generations–Mr. JR Mustard said that Pokemon is for everyone. “I really believe that the Pokemon trading card game is for everyone, regardless of your age. This is what I love about gaming and esports in general. It's inclusive and everything.”
As for holding more similar events to this one, Mr. Mustard added, “I really feel that there should be more initiatives [...] it's no longer a flash in the pan. It's no longer a fad. [...] It's actually part of your culture. Whether they are hardcore gamers, casual gamers, everyone does game.”
He mentioned that there are opportunities in the world of gaming, especially in this generation, “And for those who think that gaming is a waste of time or anything, [...] We always tell everyone that you don't have to be a pro player to be in gaming. There's an entire back end, it's an entire business.”
“If you're good in marketing, you can be a marketer in esports. If you're more technical, broadcasting, no problem. If you're a Masscom student, you want to be a commentator or a shoutcaster, you can do that in esports,” he added.
Victory Road
As for Romançon Gaming President and ID123 student Ania Kirsten Bangalan from the Creative Industries Management (AB-CIM) program, expressed the challenges they face with the event. “There were so many challenges. Mostly logistically, we faced a lot of hiccups. Originally, we wanted to hold this event back on Oct. 30 [but] Benilde announced that they were going to shift to online. So, that threw us off the rails completely. So, we ended up having to immediately coordinate with both our partner, Pokémon itself, and the school.”
She added as well that “I think it was for the best. Because if we had pushed through on that day, even if there were people coming to campus, it wouldn't have garnered this much traction. So, I'm glad we had that extra few weeks to be able to promote more and have this amazing turnout that we had today.”
With the efforts of Romançon and WP Gaming, Pokémon TCG Academia at Benilde brought together students, hobbyists, and longtime fans, creating a space where learning, competition, and community thrived.
From minigames and friendly battles to the Masterclass, attendees of all skill levels engaged with the Pokémon Trading Card Game in meaningful ways, highlighting the event’s inclusion and accessibility.
The enthusiastic turnout and lively atmosphere showed that gaming can be both educational and fun. Pokémon TCG Academia left a lasting impression on campus and set the stage for future events that foster connection, learning, and enjoyment for students of all experience levels.
